Benham Charitable Settlement

The Trust funds a broad range of themes including medical research, disability and health, support for the elderly, children and young people, poverty relief, overseas aid, missions to seamen, ex-servicemen welfare, wildlife and environmental conservation, heritage, the arts, and religious activities, particularly Church of England projects and Christian missions. Grants typically cover core costs or small project expenses rather than major capital works. The Trust prioritises charities serving Northamptonshire but also supports work elsewhere in the UK and overseas.

UK-registered charities and community groups of any size are eligible to apply. The Trust has a strong preference for organisations based in or serving Northamptonshire. It prioritises work benefiting young people, disabled people, the elderly, those in poverty, and faith-based causes, especially Christian activities. While the Trust has Christian roots, it is open to charities of any faith background where public benefit is clear.

The Trust does not fund individuals, seed funding, emergency relief, or large infrastructure projects. It also avoids major capital works, focusing instead on core costs and small project expenses. Grants are not available for start-up costs or large-scale building projects.

The Trust favours a low-bureaucracy, relationship-driven approach and welcomes unsolicited applications. Grants are typically one-off and support core costs or small project expenses. The Trust prefers personal contact with applicants rather than formal application portals.